Design Manager

About This Role

Role: Design Manager

Location: Makkah

Company Overview

Compass Project Consulting is an award-winning, dynamic, and respected project development consultancy, providing high-quality, value-for-money, and fully tailored services to clients across all sectors.

As highly regarded project leaders and effective communicators, our team at Compass has delivered numerous projects for some of the region’s most ambitious and innovative change-makers. Our diverse and disciplined team facilitates world-class project development solutions.

Drawing on our extensive delivery experience, industry-wide knowledge, and sophisticated project development tools, we facilitate the most proficient path toward project success, overcoming constraints and obstacles to deliver projects effectively and efficiently for our clients.

We lead project success stories.

Role Summary

We are seeking an experienced Design Manager with a proven track record in delivering large-scale shopping malls and retail developments across the UAE and/or KSA.

The successful candidate will be responsible for leading the design process across all stages, ensuring alignment with client requirements, commercial objectives, and operational considerations, while managing complex stakeholder interfaces across multidisciplinary teams.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the end-to-end design process from concept through to detailed design and construction documentation
• Coordinate multidisciplinary design teams, including architectural, structural, MEP, and specialist retail consultants
• Ensure design outputs align with client vision, brand standards, and operational requirements
• Manage tenant coordination, ensuring integration of retailer requirements into the base build design
• Review and approve design deliverables including drawings, reports, and specifications
• Interface with clients, developers, operators, and key stakeholders to drive design alignment
• Identify design risks and proactively implement mitigation strategies
• Support value engineering initiatives to optimise cost without compromising design intent
• Ensure compliance with local authority regulations and approval processes
• Provide technical support to procurement and construction teams as required

Candidate Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Architecture, Engineering, or a related discipline
• Minimum 15 years’ experience in design management
• Demonstrated experience delivering shopping malls and large-scale retail developments
• Strong understanding of retail planning, tenant coordination, and mall operations
• Experience working with developers, PMC, or leading consultancies
• Strong knowledge of KSA authority requirements
• Proven ability to manage complex stakeholder environments
• Excellent communication, coordination, and leadership skills

Desirable Attributes

• Experience in flagship or iconic retail developments
• Exposure to mixed-use developments (retail-led schemes)
• Familiarity with BIM and digital design coordination tools
• Strong commercial awareness and ability to contribute to value-driven design decisions

Why Join Compass Project Consulting?

At Compass, we offer a collaborative and supportive work environment, competitive benefits, and the opportunity to work on some of the region’s most exciting projects. Join us and contribute to shaping the future of the built environment in the Middle East.

How to Apply

If you are a passionate and experienced Senior Quantity Surveyor with a drive for excellence and innovation, we want to hear from you! Please apply via the link and shortlisted candidates will be contacted by a Talent Acquisition representative.

Website: https://compass-pc.com/about-compass

Instagram: @compass_pc

Evolving Tomorrow, Today

Compass Project Consulting is an equal-opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace.